The Inclusion Project in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Kano State with the support of the Malala Fund convenes stakeholders from various sectors in Kano to review and validate the draft Personal Hygiene Management and School-Related Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Policy for schools. This policy aims to address key concerns and ensure that girls can complete their education in a safe and supportive environment, free from limitations or barriers.
It is deeply concerning that many young girls face challenges related to poor personal hygiene leading to school absences and a decline in self-confidence due to fears of harassment or disruptions caused by menstrual hygiene issues. Schools often lack adequate WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) facilities, and the absence of personal hygiene products limits girls’ participation in class. This situation also increases bullying and harassment by male peers. The violence and stigma many girls experience as a result of these issues negatively shape their educational outcomes in numerous ways.
The Inclusion Project (TIP), with the support of the Malala Fund, has educated and empowered young girls in Kano and Imo states on personal hygiene management, sexual and gender-based violence, and human rights through female clubs in schools and communities since 2022. This initiative has reduced absenteeism and improved participation among girls. We are excited that we have chartered the committees in communities that have been actively working to promote and protect the rights of the girl child and ensure an environment where girls can thrive academically and socially.
The stakeholder committee forum, convened by TIP, brought together key players from the Ministry of Women Affairs, and Ministry of Justice, traditional rulers, community leaders, local government officials, school administrators, teachers, parents, civil society organizations, and international partners. This forum provided an invaluable opportunity for stakeholders to review the draft policy, offer insights, and validate the next steps for policy implementation. The policy addresses the clear guidelines for prevention, reporting, and response to School-related gender-based violence, information on how to promote personal hygiene in schools, and measures on how to promote a culture of respect, security, and inclusivity in schools.
TIP remains committed to collaborating with the Ministry of Education to ensure the successful implementation of this policy. Once adopted, this policy will not only reduce dropout rates for girls in schools but will also contribute to building a safer, more inclusive educational environment where girls can thrive.
TIP reiterates its commitment to ensuring that no barriers stand in the way of girls accessing quality education and achieving their full potential.
For the Inclusion Project -TIP
Pamela Okoroigwe
Director